Accessibility Links

Q&A: US presidential race the caucuses

The Republican presidential hopeful Ron Paul and his wife in IowaGetty Images

What is going on in Iowa?

It is time for the caucuses; the first step in a long, somewhat arcane electoral process that will select the Republican Party’s nominee for president.

Yes, but what are caucuses exactly?

They are essentially a set of local Republican Party meetings held tonight after work. It is an old-fashioned form of democracy where residents gather in small groups, often in churches or schools, to discuss the party and the available candidates and to decide who that precinct wants to nominate for president.

Who goes?

Any registered member of the Republican Party is welcome to attend their local caucus. You can register on the day so you can still go if you are new to politics or, if you’re curious…